The majority of a working group propose that the RÚV exits the advertising market

The proposal by majority of the working group of the Ministry of Culture and Business Affairs proposes that the Icelandic National Broadcasting Service (RÚV) should exit the advertising market and thus be exempted from private competition when it comes to advertising sales. This amendment is proposed to take effect at the end of the next year.

It is also proposed that the broadcasting fee be increased to compensate RÚV for the loss of revenues from this and that this increase be partially reversed.

The state takes over pension liabilities of RÚV

The proposal stipulates that advertisements and announcements that fall under public service, such as public protection, natural hazards, and announcements from government and tax authorities, will continue to be allowed to be published. It also proposes that the state should take over RÚV’s pension obligations.

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Saddened by the news from the media market

The proposal states that media subsidies to private media will be eliminated alongside the withdrawal of RÚV from the advertising market, while local smaller media in the countryside will continue to receive subsidies.

RÚV operations reviewed

The majority's proposal also states that RÚV's operations will be reviewed and a committee will be set up to deal with the matter to adapt the company's operations to a changed revenue model.

In addition, a proposal is made to revise the service contract with RÚV and coordinate it with the situation of the institution without the advertising revenue and the savings that are planned. At the same time, necessary legal changes will be made.

Easy access to a wide range of media

In the motion for a resolution of the parliament, the Minister of Culture and Business Affairs, on the action plan for the media for 2024-2030, states that the government’s vision is for people to have easy access to a diverse, responsible and independent media that disseminates news, social dialogue and culture.

It says that the aim is to create a work environment that promotes strong public service media with the active participation of different and diverse media around the country.

Improving the operational environment of private media

The focus will be on improving the operational environment of private media and the working environment of media workers. The government’s actions will also be aimed at strengthening the education of journalists, ensuring access to high-quality media in the public service, and supporting the innovation and development of media.

The parliamentary resolution also states that private media will be temporarily exempted from paying 70 percent of the media employees' insurance fees and that a more equal media environment will be promoted by reducing RÚV's business in the advertising market and making greater demands on foreign streaming services and technology giants, including investment in domestic content.